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Atlanta Soto Zen Center

Your First Visit

 
 
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Services at the Atlanta Soto Zen Center primarily involve silent zen meditation (zazen). We welcome experienced visitors to attend any of our services.

Please arrive 5-10 minutes before the start of he service and introduce yourself to the attendant. Our programs begin promptly at the time specified and we ask that visitors not interrupt services in progress.

There is no cost for our services. We are a non-profit organization supported by the offerings from our members and supporters. At ASZC we regard giving(dana) not as an obligation, but instead as an opportunity to help the Sangha thrive, and to sustain its propagation of authentic Zen practice. So please practice generosity with an open mind and an open heart.

We welcome you to the Sangha, and appreciate your questions, comments and suggestions about the programs we offer. We pledge to practice transparency as to where the money goes, and what it is used for.

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newcomers workshop

Newcomers zen meditation instruction each Wednesday at 7:30pm and Occasional "Zen Buddhist Basics" classes.

We welcome everyone to begin exploration of Zen practice during Newcomers' Workshop. This session focuses on the mechanics of sitting including posture, breath, and attention during meditation. Newcomers are given an opportunity to introduce themselves, talk about their interest in Zen, and ask any questions they may have.

We encourage everyone to attend several Newcomer Workshops. Attendees often find new meaning in hearing the instructions offered by different attendants. 

Newcomers Session is recommended but not required and you may attend any of the regularly scheduled meditation services, especially if you are already experienced with seated meditation. Please arrive on-time and enter the meditation hall (zendo) quietly.

Appropriate attire is modest comfortable clothing. We remove shoes inside the center. Please do not wear fragrances.

STUDENTS: If you are visiting for a class (e.g. Comparative Religion), please come to our 7:30p Wednesday Workshop: "Introduction to Zen Meditation." You may also attend Sunday morning, but will have less time for Q&A. Please DO NOT drop by unannounced at any other time. This ensures that there is someone who can answer your questions and you will not disturb the residents.